Pour the liquid into the flour and beat until smooth. The mixture should just be able to fall from the spoon. Spread the dough over the baking sheet with the back of a spoon about 2 cm thick.

Wet your fingers and push into the dough leaving holes all over.

Prepare topping of choice and sprinkle over the bread with olive oil and salt.

Leave in a warm place to prove for 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 200°c / 400°f / gas mark 6.

Bake for 13 – 15 minutes until golden brown.

Leave to cool on a wire rack. Place in an airtight container and eat within two days or freeze and eat within 3 months.

Gem's hints and tips

If you find it difficult to spread the dough, keep dipping the spoon in water.Serve with a bowl of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping the bread.Topping SuggestionsMixed olivesCrushed garlicRoughly chopped herbsSundried tomatoesSliced onion